How to recover from patellar tendon injury
Sep 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Jianjun
Introduction
Patellar tendon injuries can be treated through immobilization and rest, hot and cold compresses, traditional Chinese physical therapy, medication, or surgical intervention, depending on the specific condition. Timely symptomatic treatment is essential. If a patellar tendon injury in the knee occurs within 48 hours and is accompanied by local symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain, an ice pack can be applied to the affected area to constrict capillaries, reduce bleeding and exudation, and prevent worsening of swelling and pain.
In general, patellar tendon injuries can be managed through immobilization and rest, cold and heat therapy, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) physical therapy, medication, or surgical treatment, depending on the specific condition. The details are as follows:
1. Immobilization and rest: After a patellar tendon injury occurs, patients should immediately stop any physical activity and immobilize the knee using materials such as cardboard or wooden splints to prevent further damage.
2. Cold and heat therapy: If the injury occurred within the past 48 hours and symptoms such as local redness, swelling, and pain are present, apply an ice pack to the affected area to constrict capillaries, reduce bleeding and exudation, and prevent worsening of swelling and pain. After 48 hours, switch to heat application to dilate capillaries, improve blood circulation, promote absorption of hematoma, and relieve pain.
3. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) physical therapy: Because the patellar tendon is relatively small and inflammation tends to be localized, patients may accelerate recovery through TCM therapies such as moxibustion, acupuncture, or electrical stimulation, which help dissipate inflammation and support rehabilitation.
4. Medication: For severe pain following a patellar tendon injury, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or diclofenac sodium may be taken under medical guidance. In some cases, opioid medications such as meperidine hydrochloride or tramadol hydrochloride may be prescribed when necessary to alleviate pain.
5. Surgical treatment: If the patient's condition does not improve over time, it may be necessary to visit a hospital for surgical removal of damaged patellar tendon tissue under a doctor’s supervision.
Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention when experiencing discomfort and to undergo standardized treatment under professional guidance to facilitate recovery.
